Free taster sessions featuring a range of mental health treatments will take place at a local venue this week.

The depression support group, Shadows, will host an event on August 23 at the Cadet Hut in Garnant from 1pm to 4pm, promoting the importance of physical and mental wellbeing.

Residents have the chance to learn more about alternative therapies, speak to a variety of specialists who are attending and experience treatment such as massage, breath work, suicide prevention and other coping strategies.

The event will feature relaxing breathwork with a qualified therapist. The event will feature relaxing breathwork with a qualified therapist. (Image: Calon Breathwork)

Locals will be able to experience massage therapy for their symptoms. Locals will be able to experience massage therapy for their symptoms. (Image: Shadows Depression Support Group) Founder of Shadows, Louise Craik said: “People are finding it hard to speak to people. We are social creatures. We need interaction. A lot of people with mental health problems can’t see someone straightaway.

“We are seeing the fallout from COVID where people are ringing up, yet being told there are no available appointments. If we can help them in any way, it would make a massive difference.

“It’s not about replacing medical advice. It’s about giving yourself a hug and being in depth. When you’re not feeling mentally well, the first thing to go is your self-care.”

One of Shadow's therapists, Jo Barker. One of Shadow's therapists, Jo Barker. (Image: Shadows Depression Support Group) Despite the life-changing work Shadows does in the community, the organisation requires funding to stay open long-term.

During this time of year, funding runs out for first port of call groups like Shadows and larger organisations are prioritised.

Cllr Emyr Rees is a big supporter of Shadows and has echoed Cllr Kevin Madge’s appeal to keep the service open in a speech to fellow councillors.

He said: “Shadows Depression Support Group means so much to me. Shadows is run by two of the most caring and compassionate ladies you could ever meet.

“They have a handful of volunteers, who first came to Shadows as unwell, broken individuals that felt they had no reason to keep on living. With Shadows help they have become inspirational people who now help others.

“Shadows is unique in the way that it helps people. They don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach. They tailor their help to each individual.

“When you go to Shadows, you don’t get a ticket and told to stand at the end of the queue and hopefully someone will see you in a week or two, or months in some cases. You will be seen immediately.”

EMMETT is a unique form of body relaxation therapy. EMMETT is a unique form of body relaxation therapy. (Image: Shadows Depression Support Group) The contact details for EMMETT therapy with Louise Craik from Shadows. The contact details for EMMETT therapy with Louise Craik from Shadows. (Image: Shadows Depression Support Group) Shadows currently have over 1600 service users on their books and specialise in EMMETT therapy – a unique form of body relaxation therapy, involving the application of light finger pressure at specific points.